Monday, October 12, 2009

Apple Student Discount - How Does it Work?

Apple student discount will save a student as much as $250 for every purchase of computers, software or computer softwares in the store. Students go to the shop and buy these products all the time without knowing that their student ID's will give them huge savings. All they had to do was present their student ID when they're paying for the product and they will get instant 10% discount.


Apple knows that its Macbook is the favorite laptop of students. It's very portable. It weighs only 5 lbs. and its size is only 13 inches which is just a little longer than a standard ruler. Students who are buying these computers only need to let the person in the counter know that they are students and the prices will be slashed down to special student prices.


A MacBook that costs around $1,100 for example are given for less than $1,000. If you are a parent of a student even if your kid is still in kinder you can use their ID and get student discount. The discount also works for people who are employed in academic institutions. Teachers, school clerks and librarians are eligible for the program. If you're not a student or employed in an academic institution and you know any student, you can use their ID and you'll get the discount.


If you are planning to buy a computer or computer accessories, don't forget to take hold of apple student discount. Whether you're making an online purchase or buying from the store, you or your child's school ID can give you huge savings so grab this opportunity and take advantage of this program.


Author:

Bernie de la Paz loves to write about different things. She appreciates it when people reads her work on the internet.

The Future of MacBooks


Today, Apple Inc are known by and rely on the MacBook laptop as a core feature of the company today. The MacBook which was introduced in May 2006 replaced the iBook with the MacBook Pro replacing the 12" PowerBook. The MacBook targets both education and consumer markets. The current MacBook is available in two main designs, one uses polycarbonate casing and the other uses the unibody aluminum casing. Polycarbonate casing MacBook was further upgraded with SuperDrive and chipset which is currently available.


However, Montevina platform this is currently installed in Intel notebooks will be replaced by Calpella. This will help the long awaited mobile Nehalem processors and its structural design which will improve its existing performance and will surely show spectacular functioning. But it is believed that, this year Intel will be introducing 3 mobile Nehalem processors and each one will be Quad core but will have slower speed processors like 1.6GHz, 1.73 GHz and 2.OGHz.

Though Apple has confirmed that there wont be any more new versions of Mac till 2009, time has arrived to know what models will be updated by Apple. Mac Pro: Nehalem, a code name for Intel's new Core i7 CPU, is basically quad core CPU that uses new make, that is dedicated L1 and L2 caches for both core and 8 MB L3 cache which is shared. 8 MB L3 is an integrated memory controller. With amazing performance, this new version of MacBook outperforms the older versions with 8-core Xeon designs. It is specially designed for the top-end and the PC dealers are declaring i7 CPU based computers.


The performance of high quality Core i7 Extreme Edition at 3.2 GHz is similar to Xeon that is used in Mac Pro. The Core i7 is presented in different speed of 2.66 GHz, 2.93 GHz and 3.2 GHz. Mac Pro will soon hit the market and will be priced at $281 for single quad-core CPU with low-end i7 chip, $999 chip for 3.2 GHz Mac Pro with two quad-core CPUs and lastly $562 for 2.93 GHz model with i7 CPU.


It is also predicted that the recent Macs will deliver Mac OS X 10.6-Snow Leopard and Apple will also upgrade the Late 2008 MacBook or MacBook Air or MacBook Pro, for free! It is expected that the "Snow Leopard" Mac OS X v10.6 will be released at Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference, in early June this year. Snow Leopard has many technologies and is designed to get full advantage of computers with numerous cores.


This will help the programmers to develop functions that will have greater speed on multi-core systems. Snow Leopard will surely help programmers as it will be of great advantage to them. The coming days will prove the great advantages of Snow Leopard to the programmers as they will be developing programs that perform quicker on multi-core CPUs. It is sensible to wait until Macworld has tested Snow Leopard's performance prior to making such a huge investment.


Author:

Jamie Hanson: To know more about the future and the benefits of latest versions of MacBooks, just click Free MacBook

PC Laptop Computers - Apple Macbook Computers and Notebook


Whether a buyer chooses to opt for a Mac or a PC laptop could very well merely depend on what product they are more familiar with.

You may find consumers extremely critical of one or the other based solely on their own experiences and it does not necessarily follow that the biggest critics have actually used both products, just that they are fiercely loyal to what their own preference is (logic does not come into it).


However advances in technology make the gap between Mac and PC draw closer together on a regular basis and it is possible to use similar programs and file formats for both camps.


Cost, obviously plays a factor for most people and initially a pc comes way out on top, but, because PC's do not come with many items of software as standard it brings the overall cost of either laptop much closer over the laptop's expected lifetime. Can you afford to pay the higher cost of a Mac, and receive a laptop that is ready to dive right in with whatever you have in mind or would you prefer to pay less upfront, but, add to and upgrade as and when your need or your purse strings allow?


Apple Mac's are less susceptible to virus attack than laptop PC's because of their OS X operating system, but anti-virus, and anti-spyware software is readily available and by following simple safety precautions it is possible to avoid major problems whilst using the Windows system on a laptop PC.


If you like gaming, you will find most computer games have been written for PC's, and that would, obviously, make you more inclined to opt for this form of laptop, but, if your line of work is video editing, graphic designing or web developing then a Mac laptop handles graphics much better and offers software suites that outperform their PC competitors.


Many factors may determine which laptop a person opts for, whether that is previous experience, work related, recommendation, cost or a combination of many factors. This is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the laptop of your dreams.


Mac and PC laptops are available from Pyramid.com, where you can compare function, pros and cons before choosing the perfect laptop for you.


Apple Macbooks
Apple Laptops
Apple Notebooks


Author:

David Gabbitas: Pyramid supply a huge range of laptops and computer accessories

MacBook Care: Safety Tips for Your Apple MacBook


Your MacBook is more than just a computer notebook for work or leisure. It is, more importantly, your tool for communication, entertainment, and knowledge search. It is, therefore, advised that you take proper care of your MacBook as it is a vital technological investment for both personal and professional growth.


Safety Tips in Carrying the MacBook

  • Buy a durable notebook sleeve for your MacBook from Apple stores. Whenever you carry it around by hand or in a bag, make sure to slip it in its sleeve to protect it from dust, dirt, and other minor damages.
  • For maximum protection, put your MacBook inside its sleeve before keeping it in its bag. This should protect it from shocks, hits, and, bumps, especially if you are carrying it along inside a vehicle.
  • When the MacBook is inside its carrying case or bag, make sure to remove all loose little items like coins, pens, or paper clips that might accidentally scratch or damage your MacBook. This should also prevent them from getting inside your computer's openings or ports such as the optical drive or card reader.

Safety Tips in Storing the MacBook
  • When not in use, make sure that your MacBook is kept in a cool, dry location.
  • Keep it away from children's reach to avoid scratches, damage, or even file loss.
  • Preserve the battery life of your MacBook by discharging it 50% before you store your MacBook.

Safety Tips in Cleaning the MacBook
  • When cleaning your MacBook, make sure it has been properly shut down and its power adapter is not plugged in. Remove the battery, as well.
  • To clean the MacBook's exterior, use a soft damp cloth that is lint-free. Wipe the computer's surface in a gentle manner and avoid wetting or getting moisture in any port or opening.
  • Do no use aerosol sprays, abrasives, or solvents when cleaning your MacBook.
  • Do not spray any cleaning liquid on your MacBook screen.

Remember, your MacBook is an extension of yourself. It defines how you represent yourself to people at work and outside. So make sure that your MacBook is clean and sparkly - just like you are!


Author:

Heide Lynne Canlas is a blogger, writer, editor, author, SEO specialist, and online marketer, sidelining as a QA officer.

So, when she notices something wrong with what you say or do and asks you to correct it, forgive her. She's just so used to doing her job! :D

How to Get the Best Deals on Apple Laptops



We all know that Apple computers and laptops are so much more expensive than those of HP, Dell, Asus, and other computer brands. Because it brags the highest quality and the best performance, it is no wonder why it would pass the costs to the consumers.


However, even if you are budget restricted, you can still afford to purchase Apple laptops and products! As long as you know how and where to find the great deals on Apple laptops, you can have one right in the palm of your hands in no time! Here are some tips and secrets on


how to get the best deals on Apple laptops
:


1. Purchase an Apple laptop when there are sales or promos on Apple stores. During these times, you can get not only huge savings, but you a lot of freebies from the store as well, such as an extended warranty or a free laptop case.


2. Take advantage of mail-in rebates where you'd get a great discount after you fill out some documents and mail them back to the store. Mail-in rebates usually offer money back or a free accessory that will go with your Apple laptop.


le stores offer them with the most expensive costs. For a few bucks off of Apple laptops, computers, and iPods, it is better to purchase from direct resellers or distributors as they offer them cheaper. Reselling Apple stores are available both online and locally through stores.


4. Unless necessarily needed, wait for special events before buying a laptop as prices of laptops and other Apple products drop during holiday promos like Father's Day, Independence Day, and Christmas, most especially. During these times you can also invest in more than one item so that you can take advantage of the discounts, especially if you are giving away some as gifts to friends or family members.


The expensive cost of Apple laptops and other products should not discourage you from buying the gadgets of your dreams. Whether it's an iPhone or a Macbook that you intend to buy, simply save up enough money and then follow the above steps on


how to get the best deals on Apple laptops and other products to be able to purchase one without being too guilty about it. Remember, to get the best Apple laptop deal, take your time and do not hurry. Once an opportunity comes, that's when you should head out to the Apple stores and purchase one for yourself.


Author:

Heide Lynne Canlas is a blogger, writer, editor, author, SEO specialist, and online marketer, sidelining as a QA officer.

So, when she notices something wrong with what you say or do and asks you to correct it, forgive her. She's just so used to doing her job! :D

What You Can't Do With a Mac


Despite all the ads telling you otherwise, Macs are not a holy revalation from His Jobness. I've switched to Mac, and switched back, and here are some things that you can't do (or do well).

Do Things Quickly - There are no fast quad cores available for mainstream Macs, so that awesome video you shot will take forever to convert to DVD. Want to know how much difference we're talking about? The same project on the Macbook Air showed a 12 hour 30 minute estimate, on the 24" 2.8 GHz iMac showed 8 hours, and took 12 minutes on my Core i7 Windows 7 desktop.


Multitask With Ease - In windows, you'll see all your open programs down there, on the Start bar/task bar, but in Mac, all you'll see is the tiniest glimmer of a reflection under the program's icon in the dock. You can command-tab to switch between windows, but it seems as if Apple discovered this feature yesterday - it's that half-baked. Yes, there's expose, but it doesn't all for the speed and ease that you get with alt-tab or start-tab in Windows.


Play Games - OK, there are games for Mac, but they suck for two reasons. One, barely anyone makes games for Mac. Two, the hardware is pathetic, so even the games that are made for Mac will be very inferior to their PC cousins. All iMacs use pathetic entry-level video cards that on their own, sell for $40 or less. The Macbook Pros with discrete graphics are okay at best, and bad value for money at worst, considering their prices.


Install Little Programs - Your accountant might give you a little program to help you with your taxes, or you might want to download a little niche program to make themes for Wordpress. None of these little programs are going to work on Mac natively. Use a Mac As a Monitor - Whether we're talking about iMacs or Macbooks, you can't use them as a monitor or TV. There are no inputs. One would think that when you spend two grand or more on a computer with a nice 24" screen, that you might be able to plug in your cable box, or use it as a monitor for your Macbook... no can do.


Have the Latest Software - Even for cross-platform software such as Microsoft Office or Skype, you won't get the latest updates the way they release them for the Windows platform. Have All The Features - Continuing on cross-platform software like Office, Skype, Yahoo and MSN Messenger, the Mac versions are seriously detuned. For example, in Microsoft Word, there is no Office button functionality, which means no uploading to blogging platforms at all. The attitude you'll get is "you're lucky that you can even open the same files!"


This is just a short, quick list of things, but believe me, there are many more. I had put up with these things for a long time, but when I noticed that Macs aren't immune to viruses (and the destruction that can ensue), that they do slow down over time (something they're said not to do) and that you have to put up with so much, I said enough is enough. Be informed before you jump in and give His Steveness thousands of your hard-earned dollars.


Author:

David Carmichael: Check out information about getting an HP external hard drive or Norelco replacement blades!

The Apple Tax Increases


Apple has a nasty little habit of updating iPods on a yearly basis, which means that your current iPod doesn't have very long to remain the latest and greatest. From a business perspective, there's two ways to look at it. One, which is Apple's point of view, is that customers will buy iPods, then be tempted to buy the next, improved iPod as well. Apple thinks customers should buy iPods as often as possible. This of course, is how Apple has struck it rich with the iPod.

The other is the point of view that luxury car companies have (such as Mercedes, BMW, Lexus and Audi). They charge more (than the average product), and come out with complete redesigns every 6-9 as opposed to 4 for many Honda and Toyota models. Repeat business is important to most businesses, and in order to build customer loyalty, customer satisfaction is key. Being more expensive, Apple has had no but to go this route with their laptops, keeping the glowing Apple logo and other family styling cues.


The interesting thing is that Apple's products go through short life cycles AND are more expensive than the competition, for the most part! That's two profit strategies where there should be one, and it's easy to see why the number one complaint against Apple products is price. Every single Apple product is priced more than the competition, and this practice of overpricing has gained the title - The Apple Tax.


The Apple tax is essentially the premium you pay for the product being from Apple. The Macbook and Macbook Pro laptops are significantly more expensive than their competition if looked at component-by-component. So how is it that Apple continues to become more and more successful; why do people continue to buy Apple products?


People are suckers for styling, and so far, no company has been able to come close to Apple in terms of style across the line (not a one-off product like the Voodoo Envy). Apple's simplicity-based marketing approach has done a lot to capture people's attention, and the dislike for Vista has only helped their cause. Right now, there is a perception that Mac OS X is a superior operating system. This is not actually the case (in fact, it was shown to be less secure at hacker competitions).


Apple can gain more market share, increase the units sold as well as overall revenue by revising their pricing strategy and value proposition. They also need to consider the long-term effects of their current product life cycles - the market will not continue to respond to these things favourably forever.


Author:

Heide Lynne Canlas is a blogger, writer, editor, author, SEO specialist, and online marketer, sidelining as a QA officer. So, when she notices something wrong with what you say or do and asks you to correct it, forgive her. She's just so used to doing her job!